Only A Moment

We're Breaking Free...

SOPHIE POV

Will headed to work using his car the next morning and reassured us he would grab our Target order on his way home. I got some cleaning done and worked on organizing my newly constructed book shelves while Addy did research for what she needed to enroll in Cosmetology school.

There was a new session starting in late October which was perfect timing. She had about a month to get used to being away from home and find a job.  Will suggested the ice cream shop they loved but there were also a few small bookstores that Addy wanted to visit in case that felt like a better fit. We agreed it would be fun to head to some of the possible job locations over the weekend so she can ask about whether they are hiring.

Addison has never had a job before. She never did babysitting or a paper route but was excited to try new things. We talked about basic household tidying like how to wash dishes and what products to use on the kitchen counter versus bathroom, giving her guidance a step at a time.

It was easier than I expected. Instead of recoiling at the idea of scrubbing toilets, Addy just popped in her AirPods and got music going while she cleaned or folded laundry. She was eager to ask questions and make sure she completed tasks properly but mostly it was nice to have company.

We were becoming fast friends.  Her upbeat conversation kept me grounded whenever the world felt like it was pressing in around me.

Their parents never called her phone. I was wary about Timothy visiting later in the day but Addy planned to stay with me while Will spoke to him at his place. Depending on the way that conversation went we could decide next steps.

It did not take long before my stomach started growling. Addison teased that Milo worked up an appetite so it was probably time to feed him. I laughed and agreed, then finished putting clean clothes away before we headed to the kitchen.

"So, ready to learn some basic cooking?" I asked, grinning as we stood by the stove top.

She laughed, "I feel like such an idiot for not knowing anything but there was just no chance to learn. My mom didn't like me in the kitchen since she watched every calorie I ate so if I helped it was harder for her to control everything."

Her eyes flicked to mine and I saw almost embarrassment in her expression. "Addison, you're safe here. I had a hard time with disordered eating when I was younger and still struggle sometimes so we can work this out together."

"You did?"  The surprise in her voice made my heart ache.  I decided to share more, knowing how difficult this fight really is.  This is a way I can support Addy, so being open about something I still struggle with will help.

"In high school I was really busy with classes and starting my company as well as just spending every moment I could learning about graphic design. I'd forget to eat and my parents didn't pay much attention so it turned into a control thing. Maybe I can't figure out how to arrange an invoice or properly handle past due bills but I have power over what I eat. That turned into starving myself then binging." I leaned against the counter and let out a sigh, Milo kicking into my hand to calm me.  "It messed with my body a lot... to the point where I didn't get my period for like 4 months when I was 17.  Thankfully my Dad finally caught on to the not eating issue and helped me get into counseling.  I still talk to my therapist once in awhile.  We had a couple appointments right after I learned I was pregnant, and check ins since then to make sure I'm intentionally focusing on my diet.  Growing a baby takes a lot of energy but I definitely feel stronger now that I'm more aware of how that control issue can take hold."

Addy shook her head, "I never would have imagined... You seem like you have your shit together."

"This is a lifelong battle. You can't just flip a switch and suddenly see food as fuel. What you can do is learn what works for your body and take care of yourself." I smiled gently, "I'm glad you're here...  even if things hadn't come to a head with your parents, I have a feeling this will be your chance to actually break free from the stress and criticism you've lived with your whole life."